Manufacturing Today Issue - 250 July 2026 | Page 110

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it’ s the people on our team. We focus on promoting from within. Doubling our footprint and more than doubling output creates more opportunities for our team to grow their careers.”
Platform expansion
Liberty is the first move in a broader expansion across ATW’ s truck equipment business. Dakota Bodies focuses on heavier vehicle classes, while other ATW brands serve smaller trucks, giving customers a single source across their fleet. The new facility will primarily focus on the Dakota Bodies product line, but Braden expects it will be leveraged to support other ATW Truck Equipment brands, such as CM Truck Beds, PJ Truck Beds, and Warrior Truck Beds, to maximize the effectiveness of the investment.
“ In five years, I expect our business to be twice its current size, with one or two more facilities to support that growth. In the near term, we’ re seeing doubledigit growth and expect that to continue through 2026. As we move into 2027, we’ ll increase speed and efficiency across the business,” Braden predicts.
The investment in Liberty sits within a broader shift across the business as Dakota Bodies scales to meet sustained demand while strengthening its support for customers. With added capacity, expanded capabilities, and continued focus on workforce development, the facility reflects how ATW is building for the years to come.
“ This investment shows confidence in our team, our customers, and our future. We’ ve built a strong reputation, and this move ensures we continue to grow, innovate, and serve our customers. It’ s about creating a platform that supports them better,” Braden concludes. ■
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